Currency Gains in Asia
May Benefit Equities

TAIPEI -- Asian currencies' appreciation against the dollar, helped by further gains in the yuan, will boost buying power in the region and lift consumer-related stocks, say some fund managers.

"Asian currencies are going to strengthen," said Anand Ramachandran, who helps manage the equivalent of US$4 billion in Asian equities for Citigroup Asset Management. "That will be positive for consumption."